Valerian is native to Europe and Asia, but it grows well
in South Africa. A dry, stony soil produces more essential oil in the root, but
the plant will die if not watered.

Cats & rats love valerian!

Cats like the smell of the root and leaves of valerian.
They may lie beside the plant contentedly. It seems to have a calming effect.
Other cats may paw at the plant, or eat it. The chemical in the plants that
attracts cats is actinidine. Some say the root smells like cat urine, some say
it smells like sweaty feet. But in the garden, the smell is not noticeable to
humans. The flowers have a delightful, heavy perfume and have been used in
perfume.

Rats also like the smell of valerian, and may eat the
plant so buy more than one plant, or protect it from rodents! Cats are delighted
if rats visit the garden. They enjoy hunting for rats, or just looking at them
for entertainment.

Pretty, fern-like leaves

Flowers on a tall, hollow stem

Medicinal use

The dried, powdered root of valerian is used by humans
for insomnia and sleep disorders such as awaking from sleep during the night. It
may be necessary to take valerian for a few weeks before any difference is
experienced in the time taken to fall asleep. Valerian tea can be made by
pouring almost-boiling water on the powdered root. Or a tincture can be made
thus: put the root in a glass jar and pour on cold water or fruit juice, to just
cover the root. Keep it in the
fridge & shake it every day for a few days. Strain, and take a swig when
feeling stressed. Alas, digging up the plant to use the root will kill the
plant, but you can try dividing the root and replanting a piece. The root is
stringy like onion roots. Hosing it with a jet from a hosepipe speeds up
cleaning.

It is also used as a sedative for anxiety. It has helped
those who wish to stop smoking.

It is also said to help stomach pains.

Caution

Do
consult a doctor before using herbal medicine. Pregnant or nursing women should
not take valerian, neither should children, as not enough scientific tests have
been done. It should not be consumed before driving or operating dangerous
machinery or power tools. It should not be used along with alcohol or other
drugs. It should not be used prior to surgery as it may interfere with the anesthetic.

Tip:

If you can't drop off to sleep, read the Bible! It will either
bore you to sleep, or fill you with the peace that passes all understanding. A
prescription for insomnia is to read Philippians chapter 4, verses 4 - 9. Write
it out and read it three times a day. Here it is, "Don't worry about
anything, but by thankful prayer let your requests be made known to God. And the
peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds
through Christ Jesus. Think about whatever is true, honest, just, pure,
virtuous, or praiseworthy... and the God of peace will be with you."